PEG-4
Synonyms
3,6,9-Trioxaundecane-1,11-diol;
Ethanol, 2,2'-(oxybis(2,1-ethanediyloxy))bis-;
Tetraethylene glycol;
Category
Non-ionic surfactant
> Polyether
>> Ethylene Oxide - Propylene Oxide Homopolymer and Copolymer
Chemical Numbering System
CAS: 112-60-7
EINECS: 203-989-9
Molecular Formula & Molecular Weight
Molecular Formula: C8H18O5
Molecular Weight: 194.23
Structure
Properties
Appearance (1), colorless transparent liquid.
Solubility soluble in water.
Stability stable.
Risk Liquid form: flammable material; irritation, irritation to skin, eye, respiratory system. Harmful products of combustion are CO, CO2 and so on. Contact with strong oxidants, can cause to burn.
GHS label: 
Animal Toxicity
Table 1 Animal toxicity values
|
rabbit skin LD50 |
> 20000mg/kg[1] |
|
rat oral LD50 |
28.9mL/kg[1] |
Ecology may be hazardous to environment. Water body should be given special attention.
Biodegradability biodegradable.
Characteristics excellent emulsifying, dispersing, solubilizing, lubricating, wetting, permeating abilities.
Note (1), The by-product 1,4-dioxane is a possible carcinogen. Generally, can be acceptable when concentration of 1,4-dioxane is less than 30ppm or less.
(2), Be careful with using in children's products.
Synthesis
(1), Obtained by polymerization of ethylene oxide.
Quality Standards & Test Methods
1, Physical and chemical indexes
|
Item |
Physical and chemical indexes |
|
Liquid |
|
|
Actives, %, ≥ |
95.0 |
Test Methods
(1), Actives
GB/T 13173 Surface active agents -- Detergents -- Testing methods
2, Hazardous substances indexes
|
Item |
Hazardous substances indexes |
|
Liquid |
|
|
Heavy metals (as Pb), mg/kg, ≤ |
20 |
|
As, mg/kg, ≤ |
3 |
Test Methods
(1), Heavy metals (as Pb)
Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (2015 Edition)
GB/T 30799 The test method of food detergents -- Determination of heavy metals
(2), As
Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (2015 Edition)
GB/T 30797 The test method of food detergents -- Determination of total arsenic
3, Product standards
(1), Chinese standards
(1a), GB 22114 Humectants for toothpastes -- Glycerin and macrogol
(1b), HG/T 4134 Polyethylene glycols for industrial use
4, Further explanation
(a), On physical and chemical indexes: firstly, shall be indicated carbon atom distribution; secondly, shall be indicated average molecular weight.
(b), Used in cosmetics, should be test for harmful substances or furtherly test for microorganisms, according to local regulations and standards.
Major Uses
1, Typical applications
Use as emulsifying agent, dispersing agent.
Use as solubilizing agent.
Use as lubricant.
Use as solvent.
Use as plasticizer; or used in synthesis of plasticizers.
Use as adhesive.
2, Personal care products
Humectant, solvent in personal care products.
3, Organic synthesis
Use as intermediate in organic synthesis.
4, Polymer
Solvent in coatings, nitrocellulose.
Manufacturers
References
[1]: ChemIDplus. 112-60-7, Tetraethylene glycol
Update: 20130928(1); 20200301(2);